The stories of Elijah end with the account of his ascension into heaven. He left his successor Elisha as suddenly as he had come before Israel. Elisha's words in verse 12 illustrate his understanding that Elijah had defended what was of true value in Israel more powerfully than any army. This passage throws light on the Biblical understanding of 'spirit' in the Old Testament. 'Spirit' clearly means 'power' in the passage, and Elisha asks for a share of the power which Elijah has so that he may become a worthy successor to him. Elijah's reply in verse 10 indicates that he cannot give power to another but that it must come from God. Elisha receives what he asks for.

Elijah's memory never faded from Israel. His disappearance from the world led to a later belief that he would return again to complete his prophetic work. Almost the last verse of the Old Testament says this 'But before the great and terrible day of the LORD comes, I will send the prophet Elijah' (Malachi 4:5).